Overview

In this asynchronous course, students will be introduced to the basic principles affecting the anatomical structure of the human body.

Students will work to heighten understanding of the anatomy of moving bodies, including dynamic alignment and postural control, with laboratory applications for many movement practices. Students explore the musculoskeletal system and embodiment of functional anatomy explorations. They will learn anatomical names and terms that will inform their lives as dancers, dance educators, and humans. Current functional anatomy research is applied to concepts of movement analysis, alignment assessment, and performance enhancement. Students will explore their own body’s potential and learn tools to apply functional anatomy practices in their dance classrooms. Each asynchronous module will include the following components:

• Discover: Watch the video & read the slides to provide base/foundational information on the topic
• Deepen: Read the assignment to deepen understanding of content
• Dance: dance, embody, investigate, explore the content through movement prompt
• Dive in: Write reflection on application into personal movement practice and teaching practice
• Demonstrate Knowledge: Take a quiz to deepen understanding!

Students will also be asked to secure a copy of the required reading: 

Haas, J. G. (2025). Dance Anatomy 3rd edition. Champagne, IL: Human Kinetics.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 

Students will:

• Identify the skeletal bones
• Explain the different types of muscle fibers and muscle activation
• Demonstrate knowledge of joint structure and actions
• Embody the course content in their own bodies
• Express ways in which the course content can apply to their teaching practice
• Create movement phrases as a tool for synthesizing the anatomical information with the dance form they teach

Course Format: Asynchronous – All course material online! Students receive access to all course materials for 1 Year.

Prerequisites: None

Independent Study

Independent Study courses offer students the freedom to learn at their own pace, allowing them to dedicate as much or as little time to the material as they choose. With no set deadlines, students have full control over the timing and progression of their learning. This format is best suited for those who prefer to study independently and autonomously. Students will retain access to course materials for one year, providing ample opportunity to revisit and review content at their convenience.

Discounts:

• NYCPS dance specialists get 50% off every DEL course.
• NYCPS common branch teachers get 10% off every DEL course.
• NYCPS Arnhold New Teachers get DEL courses free for their first and second year teaching in the NYCPS.

QUESTIONS? Please reach out to DanceEdLab@92ny.org.